spaceport america in sierra county new mexico

Preparations Underway for First Human Spaceflight from Spaceport America

Spaceport America

source: Spaceport America, 2020-12-07

The New Mexico Spaceport Authority has started preparations ahead of Virgin Galactic’s first powered spaceflight from Spaceport America. The flight window will open on December 11, pending good weather conditions and technical readiness.

“We are thrilled about hosting the first human spaceflight from New Mexico” said Spaceport America’s Interim Executive Director Scott McLaughlin, “this is an incredible moment for the entire state. Our team has been working closely with Virgin Galactic for many months to make sure everything is ready.”

The Gateway to Space facility at Spaceport America is home to Virgin Galactic’s terminal and hangar.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, only mission-critical staff will be on site for the test flight. Spaceport America is certified in the state COVID-safe practice. All teams are following New Mexico guidelines by wearing masks, keeping social distance, and staying home when possible.

As a reminder, Spaceport America is an active test facility and remains closed to public access. Launches are not open to public viewing and are subject to scheduling changes. Spaceport America is asking the public to stay home and monitor social media channels for flight updates.


Media Contact for Spaceport America
Alice Carruth, Public Relations Coordinator
(575) 528-8227
media@spaceportamerica.com